The Rural Adams Development Corporation (RADC) is celebrating more than three decades of supporting economic growth across rural Adams County.

Established in 1991, RADC was formed through a coalition of rural independent Adams County banks, alongside Adams Electric Cooperative and the Great River Economic Development Foundation (GREDF), with Adams Telephone Cooperative later joining the effort. The organization was created to provide low interest “gap financing” for businesses seeking to start, grow, or expand in rural Adams County outside the Quincy city limits.

Since funding its first project in June 1992, RADC has participated in 74 projects and provided more than $2.35 million in loans to support local economic development and job creation.

One of RADC’s latest success stories involves brothers Jake and Shelby Venvertloh, who purchased a building at 804 E. Wood Street in Camp Point, Illinois. The property required significant renovations before it could be leased. Financing for the improvement project was made possible through a collaborative partnership between RADC, the Two Rivers Regional Council revolving loan program, and Adams Electric Cooperative’s revolving loan fund, which also provided an additional low-rate loan to help complete the renovations.

“Projects like this show what can happen when local organizations work together to invest in rural communities,” said Mark Field, RADC member. “RADC was created to help businesses overcome financing gaps, and we’re proud to continue supporting projects that strengthen Adams County’s economy and create opportunities for future growth.”

RADC’s mission is to provide low-interest revolving loans that help create and retain jobs across rural Adams County. By partnering with local, regional, and state financing programs, RADC helps businesses secure the resources needed to launch, grow, and succeed. Click here to learn more about qualifying projects and financing opportunities.

Businesses seeking information on RADC financing can contact participating member banks or GREDF. Member banks include Central State Bank, Liberty Bank, Farmers State Bank of Camp Point, First Bankers Trust, Golden State Bank, and Town & Country Bank Midwest.

The Great River Economic Development Foundation, in partnership with the Adams County Career Guidance Team, Quincy Area Vocational and Technical Center, and John Wood Community College, hosted the 2026 Career Launch Signing Day.

Career Launch Signing Day honors recent high school and college graduates who are stepping directly into the workforce in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, nursing, logistics, truck driving, and more. The event was created to recognize and celebrate these motivated individuals who have chosen to pursue meaningful, in-demand careers within the region and have successfully secured employment with local companies.

During the ceremony, students took center stage to sign a symbolic “Work-Ready Pledge,” representing their commitment to professionalism, growth, and success in their chosen careers. Each participant received a commemorative certificate presented by the Adams County Career Guidance Team.

This year’s event recognized students from John Wood Community College who are beginning their professional journeys with local employers. These graduates exemplify the strength of the region’s workforce pipeline and highlight the opportunities available close to home.

Participating employers include Blessing Health Systems, Gardner Denver, Titan International, and General Mills. Each student will be joined by their employer during the signing ceremony, reinforcing the partnership between education and industry and celebrating the transition from classroom to career.

Career Launch Signing Day continues to grow as a signature event in Adams County, spotlighting workforce development efforts and inspiring future graduates to explore rewarding career paths within the local community.

The Adams County Career Guidance Team celebrated local educators during Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8) as part of National Teacher Week, recognizing the critical role teachers play in shaping the region’s future workforce. The initiative highlighted outstanding educators while also acknowledging students who are confidently stepping into their career paths.

From a competitive pool of nominations spanning public and parochial schools across Adams County, two educators were selected for this honor: Amy Mock, a kindergarten teacher at Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School, and Diane Germann, a junior high and high school teacher at Payson-Seymour. Both were recognized for their commitment to inspiring students and helping them connect classroom learning to future career
opportunities.

On May 7th, the honorees received appreciation gifts donated by local businesses and organizations in
recognition of their impact.

“Every day, teachers educate, influence, and shape our future workforce,” said Gena Finley, Chair of the Adams County Vocational Technical Center and Program Coordinator for the Quincy Area Vocational Technical Center. “Their role in preparing students for careers in our community is invaluable. This recognition is a small but meaningful way to thank those who actively expose students to career opportunities and support their growth.”

The Adams County Career Guidance Team is a collaborative partnership that includes the Great River
Economic Development Foundation, the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board, John Wood Community College (JWCC), the Quincy Area Vocational Technical Center (QAVTC), Junior Achievement, area school counselors, and local employers. Together, they are committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to explore and pursue the wide range of careers available in the region.

Events like this underscore the importance of strong collaboration between educators, industry partners, and the community. By working together, Adams County continues to build a skilled, confident, and career-ready workforce that will support long-term economic growth and opportunity across the region.

Click here to read the bios.